Tamil Nadu and Karnataka intensify Kaveri water dispute amid political attacks and legal moves

Tamil Nadu senior minister R. Nirmal Kumar accused Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivkumar of acting under the influence of DMK leader M.K. Stalin after a proposed Kaveri water talks were postponed, saying Shivkumar’s stance favours party leadership over the river’s interests and heightening political tension.

Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivkumar responded that the state will meet Tamil Nadu’s decision to approach the Supreme Court with a legal response, affirming respect for law and compliance with Kaveri Water Management Authority directives. He noted recent heavy rains gave temporary relief but drought remains serious, and the state is reviewing water supply and Mekedatu dam concerns.

The dispute centers on allocation of Kaveri River water, with Tamil Nadu fearing the Mekedatu dam in Karnataka could reduce downstream flow, while Karnataka argues the dam is needed for drinking water for Bengaluru. Both states continue to seek legal and political avenues to protect their interests.